Associate Corporate Lab Analyst

Smithfield Foods; Denison (IA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Smithfield Foods in Denison, IA is seeking an Associate Corporate Lab Analyst to perform microbiological and chemical testing on food products and by-products, ensuring quality, safety, and compliance. You will validate methods, analyze data, and prepare reports to support food safety standards.

The role involves maintaining laboratory accreditation, participating in proficiency testing, audits, and internal reviews, with opportunities to work on special projects related to product quality and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Food Science or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
• Company will consider a currently enrolled Bachelor's Degree college student with an anticipated graduation by end of the current semester/quarter as qualified.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety.
• Knowledge of various pathogens and microbes associated with food production.
• Ability to use a variety of basic laboratory equipment.
• Strong knowledge of Databases, Internet usage, and Microsoft applications
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Must have the ability to complete required applicable forms in English, which requires the ability to read and write in English.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Must be able to travel on an occasional basis.

Responsibilities

• Conducts microbiology and/or chemistry tests according to established protocols.
• Issuing and maintaining laboratory testing records and issuing reports.
• Analysis of micro and chemistry data.
• Sample and media preparation

Skills

Food Safety

Verbal & Written Communication

Attention to Detail

English Reading/Writing

Travel Flexibility

Education

Bachelor's in Food Science or related field

Tools

Databases

Microsoft Applications

Job description

THE VALUE YOU'LL BRING:

The position summary states the general nature and purpose of the job. Overall accountabilities are defined in this section.

As an Associate Corporate Lab Analyst, you will perform accurate and timely microbiological and chemical testing on food products and by-products to ensure quality, safety, and compliance. You will conduct microbiological analysis of meat products and environmental samples, validate methods, and make independent decisions in your area of expertise. You will also perform chemical analyses, maintain laboratory accreditation, and actively participate in proficiency testing, audits, and internal reviews. Your work will directly support food safety standards and help protect consumer health.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:

The below statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned.

• Microbiology and/or Chemistry Tests:

  • Conducts microbiology and/or chemistry tests according to established protocols.
  • Issuing and maintaining laboratory testing records and issuing reports.
  • Analysis of micro and chemistry data.
  • Sample and media preparation

• Projects:

  • Special projects related to food safety, quality and/or plant profitability.
  • The scope and duration of these projects is highly variable and will require the individual to work independently.

• General Laboratory Responsibilities: You will calibrate and perform general maintenance on laboratory instruments and equipment to ensure accuracy and reliability. You will carry out daily housekeeping duties, including cleaning glassware and countertops, to maintain a safe and organized workspace. Additionally, you may assist with method reviews and modifications, as well as evaluations of new equipment. You will also be responsible for reagent preparation and standardization, supporting the consistency and precision of chemical analyses.

WHAT WE'RE SEEKING:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Food Science or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
• Company will consider a currently enrolled Bachelor's Degree college student with an anticipated graduation by end of the current semester/quarter as qualified.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety.
• Knowledge of various pathogens and microbes associated with food production.
• Ability to use a variety of basic laboratory equipment.
• Strong knowledge of Databases, Internet usage, and Microsoft applications
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Must have the ability to complete required applicable forms in English, which requires the ability to
• read and write in English.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Must be able to travel on an occasional basis.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The physical demands described here are representative of those an employee should possess to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Office and plant setting. The plant environment will include wet or humid conditions (non-weather related), extreme cold and heat (non-weather related), working near moving mechanical parts, exposure to fumes or airborne particles, and chemicals.
• Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but can be loud when in the production area.
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Specific vision includes close vision, color differentiation, distance vision, and ability to adjust focus.
• Frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and talk or hear.

Relocation Package AvailableYes

EEO Information

Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757-357-1595.